Adopting western trends, the number of teenagers having their forearms tattooed with their nicknames and initials and their body pierced with metals has increased. Though, health experts have warned about the hazards associated with this practice, tattoos have over the years turned out to be the most stylish fashion statement in the West and have also crept into our part of the world. Tattoos are associated with rebellious behavior and that is why most parents all around the world disapprove the trend.

Experts believe that like most forms of beautification, there are inherent risks associated with the acts of tattooing or piercing the skin, such as dangers to physical health and risks involved with the choice of body site, tattoo design, physical and psychological environment, financial cost, and age. Those going for this adventure have absolutely no idea what precautions need to be taken.

In physical health, local bacterial infection is a primary hazard involved with body modification if performed by unlicensed and uncertified personnel. Infectious diseases can be inadvertently transmitted through inadequately sterilised instruments or other poor techniques. Another kind of risk they tend to take is called ‘possession risk’, which refers to the response of friends, family and society.